From reading the comments, it sounds like whether you like Valentine's Day or not depends on your marital status. I'm divorced, and I hate the day because it reminds me of what I don't have. The same seems to be true for those who are widowed. It's too bad that advertisers don't think about the many people who are single, either their own choice, or someone else's, or by death.
Years ago, it wasn't such a big broo-haa as it is now, and I never thought much of it, even when I was in a relationship. It seems to have become a much bigger marketing ploy these days, and I think puts a lot of pressure on everyone...even couples. Going out to dinner on valentine's day is like on mother's day - it's packed like sardines, if you can even get a table. Another excuse to buy gifts and chocolate, even for ourselves -- not that there's anything wrong with that.